Inside: All about fidgets - why they help, who can benefit from using them, and lots of suggested fidgets, both those that you can DIY and those you can buy.
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We all know those kids who can’t quite get settled in the classroom. They may have a hard time sitting down to get their homework done. They may be zoning off in the middle of a lesson in school. Or they may look like they are paying attention, but their mind is constantly wandering off. These kids might benefit from a fidget!
Fidgets can help kids:
self-regulate
calm down anxiety
pay attention and focus
manage stress and worry
channel their extra energy
settle restlessness
listen and concentrate
How do you use a fidget?
A fidget is a tool, not a toy. When introducing fidgets to kids, make sure that distinction is clear. Let them know you’ll be keeping an eye on how they’re using the fidgets.
Some examples of good times for kids to use a fidget are:
While listening in class
When they are giving a presentation
During a test
When they feel nervous or worried
When they’re having a hard time sitting still
Different kids respond to different fidgets. If you seem to notice that a particular type of fidget is being thrown around, and is becoming more of a distraction than a helpful tool, then it’s time to try another type of fidget.
Since kids respond in a range of ways to a variety of fidgets, I wanted to create a huge list of fidgets for you to choose from. If you’re feeling crafty, go check out the DIY fidgets. If you prefer to purchase fidgets that are ready to go, head to the fidgets to buy list. Happy fidgeting!
FIDGETS TO DIY
Take a pool noodle and cut up into small rings. Instant fidgets for a bunch of kids!
Velcro - attach one side of velcro under a child’s desk. It’s quick, easy and hidden.
Desk Fidget Tool from Sugar Aunts
Use different textures/fabrics for focus - Attach several different types of fabric/textures (satin, soft & hard side of velcro, corduroy, minky fabric, etc) on a small ruler or cardboard, then stick the whole thing to the underside of a desk
DIY Fidget Bracelet from de Jong dream house
Make homemade stress balls using balloons.
Wrap pipe cleaners around popsicle sticks
Make your own playdough - This is a simple, long lasting recipe from Emma Owl
FIDGETS TO PURCHASE
Mesh and marble fidgets
Small spiky balls
Mad Mattr
Kinetic Sand
Wikki Stix
Stress balls
Crazy Aaron’s Thinking Putty
Theraputty
different colors equal different strengths of putty
Tangles Fidgets
Twiddle Fidgets
Chewelry
Bike Chain Fidgets
Slap bands with spikes
Pencil topper fidgets
Whatz it fidget
Monkey Ring fidget
Edamame Fidget
Fidget Cube Spinner
Infinity Cube Fidget
PLACES TO GET FIDGETS
Besides Amazon, there are lots of different stores where you can purchase fidgets.
(they also sell weighted items and other fun stuff too!)
If you know of an awesome fidget that’s not on the list, please let me know. I’m always looking to add to my fidget collection!